La Reina de la Feria de las Flores Sofia Rodriguez, 17, an Alamo Heights High School senior, plans to attend the University of Houston to study pre-medicine and then enroll in medical school. She volunteers at Saint Anthony Catholic Church, the San Antonio Food Bank and as a lifeguard at kids’ parties. Her motto: Never forget where you come from.

Q: What is your Fiesta pedigree?

A: My dad was day minister for Rey Feo LXI Charlie Garza in 2009. I remember jumping in the motorcade with the “white suits” all day going to events while police motorcycles escorted everyone through the city.

Q: How have you prepared for your queenly duties?

A: First, I practiced tripping in heels in front of my mirror at home for the royal bow at the Coronation for La Reina in October. Next, I practiced getting in and out of cars with my crown on; you'd be surprised how easy it is to forget there’s a giant metal object on your head that gets caught in every car doorway. I’ve practiced the art of quick dressing, and always being flexible with a smile!

Q: Speaking of queenly details, how’s your royal wave?

A: I’m a windshield wiper waver. The trick is to not move your upper arm and focus on the forearm making sure to simultaneously rotate your hand in a swivel motion, that way it looks queenly, and not too loose like a broken wiper.

Q: What is the best way to crack a cascaron on one’s head?

A: I smash it in my hand first then sprinkle the remains on heads which eliminates the direct breaking of the cascaron on a head, which would really hurt. When I go on the hunt for my parents or family, I go stealth and catch them off guard. They never see me coming!

Q: What’s your best Fiesta-insider beauty boost tip?

A: My go-to is always carrying a lip gloss/lip tint combo in my sash which really helps right before pictures and between events. My queen's sash has a hidden pocket where I have emergency supplies and maybe a snack or two.

Q: When you hear “Show us your shoes” what will be on your feet?

A: Well, I'm working on this creation at the moment. To give you the details, would be to divulge a national secret but let's just say glitter, lots of glitter and shine.

Q: What Fiesta event are you most looking forward to?

A: I would have to say the Flambeau night parade, without a doubt. Every year my parents and family attend they buy poppers with confetti and make the biggest deal of the Rey Feo and La Reina passing on the route. The night parade ambiance is magical and it really is a spectacular sight!

Q: A queen’s gotta eat, so what’s your favorite Fiesta grub?

A: During Fiesta, chips and queso is especially high on my list. Every queso dip is different so it is fun to travel around San Antonio tasting new and delicious variations. Although, my mom's homemade queso is by far the best!

Q: How will you stay energized during 11 days of nonstop Fiesta?

A: “Coffee is a girl's best friend” especially during Fiesta. For me, I will be using a combination of espresso shots, cappuccino and my favorite chocolate, iced coffee to keep me energized and pumped up. Add a few high protein fruit smoothies and I am golden!

Q: Best Fiesta advice?

A: It is my responsibility to encourage young children to strive for greatness and remind them that they should never let anything stop them from getting where they want to go. I grew up with parents that were educators, so this has been a way of life for me and my family.

Q: What’s your Fiesta motto?

A: Viva Fiesta! Say it like you mean it and you get a smile every time.

Q: What are you most looking forward to when Fiesta is over?

A: Sleeping in my own bed. During Fiesta I will be staying at a hotel. While hotel beds will be quite luxurious, my bed is way better!